Dennis Henry Moody Sr. June 28, 1944 - September 29, 2021
Dennis Henry Moody Sr. of Porterville, California passed away on Wednesday September 29th, 2021 at the age of 77.
Born in Glendale, Arizona to Henry and Mildred Moody, Dennis was the 3rd eldest of 7 children. His fondest memories of those times were the experiences he had with his siblings, particularly with his brother Gary. Whether it was swimming in canals, helping his dad on his ice route, or popping off the tops of soda bottles in old vending machines and slurping the contents with a strawwithout paying- his stories were always detailed and comical.
In 1957, his family made the move to Glendale, California. He loved growing up in the 50’s and 60’s and spent many days playing ball at Stengel Field and hanging out at Bob’s Big Boy where he never met a Big Boy Burger or Hot Fudge Cake he didn’t like. A two-sport athlete in high schoolfootball and baseballdennis graduated from Glendale High School in 1962. After high school, he met his best friend and love of his life, Christine Moody (Fuller).
In 1969, Dennis and Christine would move to Porterville where they raised their 6 boys. Dennis would find his home away from home at General Cable in Lindsay, California. He loved the job, company, and people. His love for his job was woven into his heart and soul almost as much as his family was. He retired from General Cable when it closed in 1993. He especially loved the people and the sense of family he felt when he worked there. Because of this, he took great pride in his job and even when the plant closed his affection and loyalty to the people and his job never stopped.
Sports were a huge part of his life. From playing semi-pro baseball, to watching his kids and grandkids play sports, he found a thrill in the competition. While in Porterville, Dennis played men’s fastpitch softball when the sport was at its peak. He often played in tournaments where the best teams from around the world would gather. In the summer, Dennis and the family seemed to live at Hayes Field. He transitioned from playing days to watching his sons play, often bringing the same intensity as a spectator as he did as a player. His competitiveness might even be considered legendary. Whether playing golf, bowling, or a “friendly” game of Yahtzee, Dennis was in it to win it.
Dennis was a “perfect” human being because he epitomized perfections and imperfections that all human beings possess. He was cantankerous, hot headed, stubborn, and blunt. He was also kind, gentle, compassionate, loving, and fiercely loyal. No person in need was ever turned away and Dennis always made everyone feel welcome in his home. Home was so important to Dennis because it was always about family. To Dennis, family was the Holy Grail.
Dennis went by many monikers: Moody, Hun, Honey, Den, Denny, Dad, Pops, Gramps, and Grandpa. He wore each like a badge of honor. Dennis was always happiest when family was home. Especially when his wife, six sons, 4 daughters-inlaw, 15 grandkids, and his dog Scully were there at the same time celebrating one of many birthdays in a year or celebrating a holiday.
Dennis is preceded in death by his parents Mildred and Henry, brothers Gary and John, sisters Ava and Carol, granddaughter Brenda, and grandson Andin. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years Christine, his sons: Dennis Jr, Brandon, Brent, Chad, Gary and Michael, his daughters-in-law: Shannon, Christina, Geneva and Candace, his grandsons: Tyler, Shane, Andrew, Tanner and Clayton, his granddaughters: Samantha, Morgan, Taylor, Brandy, Jordan, Jaycie, Cailin, Cassidy and Maycee, his great grandkids: Mckenzie and Jack, and his sisters: Sandy and Penny. A private service was held and condolences can be sent to Myers Funeral Service and Crematory